U.D.O. Signals Milestone 20th Studio Album with 'I'll Die Trying' Video

U.D.O. has officially kicked off the countdown to their milestone 20th studio album, "Voodoo Ranger", with the release of the music video for the new single, "I'll Die Trying". The track serves as a personal introduction to the upcoming record, which will be released on January 8, 2027, via Reigning Phoenix Music.

2027 marks a monumental triple milestone for the German heavy metal institution: Udo Dirkschneider will turn 75, the band will celebrate 40 years of existence, and "Voodoo Ranger" will mark their 20th studio outing. The album, crafted by Dirkschneider, Sven Dirkschneider, Peter Baltes, and Fabian "Dee" Dammers, features contributions from new guitarist Alen Brentini. Produced and mixed by Martin "Mattes" Pfeiffer and mastered by Stefan Kaufmann, the record features cover art by Eliran Kantor.

I've always believed that a great ballad can be just as powerful as the heaviest metal songs.

While the band maintains its signature heavy metal edge, "I'll Die Trying" is a heartfelt ballad about perseverance and staying true to one's path. Dirkschneider explained that while the band originally planned to debut with a different track, a change in plans following injuries to Baltes and Brentini during the "Balls To The Wall" tour led them to select this song instead. "I'll Die Trying" offers a personal look at the experience of performing on stage for decades, capturing a core element of the band's identity. Despite the melodic opening, Dirkschneider insists that "Voodoo Ranger" remains packed with classic U.D.O. power and surprises.